Stefano Pecoraro

Stefano Pecoraro is the owner and general manager of Mangiabevi Urban Italian. The restaurant opened three years ago with the vision of introducing a more authentic Italian cuisine to Sterling Heights.

Stefano has worked in every aspect of the restaurant industry for over 20 years. He grew up cooking alongside both his grandmothers, where he discovered his love for food. Stefano would spend his summers in Sicily to learn more about Italian culture, and he even moved there during college to focus on his major in the Italian language. When he returned, he pursued a degree in culinary arts due to his passion for cooking, entertainment and providing excellent customer service.

As Stefano and Executive Chef Mauro Querio were looking for a location for Mangiabevi Urban Italian, the Ventimiglia family invited them to their neighboring building—a perfect opportunity to serve diners as it is centrally located in Metro Detroit. Stefano and Mauro create special experiences for guests, capturing a little bit of Italy in each dish. Their focus on flavor and family reminds diners of what their ancestors would make generations ago, and they always come back for more.

Stefano has made many meaningful connections in the community. He appreciates how welcoming and helpful Sterling Heights has been to work with as the city continues to embrace the restaurant and what they have done with the space. As a result, Mangiabevi Urban Italian is a thriving restaurant that symbolizes one of many neighborhood gems in Sterling Heights.